The city of Houston was enveloped in sorrow today as news spread of the passing of Rep. Sylvester Turner (D-Texas), a freshman congressman who was sworn into office just two months ago. Turner, a beloved figure in Houston, was 70 years old at the time of his passing.

Turner died Tuesday night after suffering a medical emergency. His family said he went to the hospital on Tuesday night in Washington D.C. He was let go but sadly passed away at home at 5:45 a.m. on Wednesday because of some health problems he had been dealing with. He was 70 years old and had just taken the oath of office in January. Turner previously faced bone cancer. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., later confirmed Turner’s death in a statement Wednesday, calling the former Houston mayor an “iconic leader” and a “fighter until the end.”

The shocking news was revealed during a city council session in Houston on Wednesday morning, causing unease among those in attendance. The Mayor, John Whitmire, was visibly moved by the news, a rare display of emotion from the typically composed leader. This unexpected turn of events has left everyone in disbelief. In response, Mayor Whitmire urged Houstonians to unite, offer prayers for the family affected, and join in honoring the remarkable public servant involved.

Professor Chris Chinwe Ulasi, former President of the Ndi-Ichie Cultural Association and Cultural Director of IgboFest Houston, expressed that Mayor Sylvester Turner was more than just a leader for Houston. He described Turner as a champion for the arts and culture that bring vibrancy to our city. Ulasi emphasized that during Turner’s time in office, his unwavering support enabled organizations like the Ndi-Ichie Cultural Association, the creators of IgboFest Houston, to flourish. This support helped foster creativity and community connections that will have a lasting impact on future generations.

Ulasi praised Turner’s vision and dedication to Houston’s multicultural landscape, noting that it was transformative. He expressed deep gratitude for the legacy that Turner leaves behind. Ulasi also highlighted Turner’s leadership in leading a delegation of industry leaders and government officials to West Africa towards the end of his second term as Mayor of Houston. Dr. Ulasi said, “Turner led a strong contingent comprising captains of industry and government officials to West Africa towards the end of his second term as Mayor of Houston. Today, we mourn his passing but celebrate the indelible mark he left on our city and its people.”

Kay Elegbede, the International Community Liaison Manager in the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs, described Turner as a towering figure who served Houston with pride and united people from all walks of life. “Mayor Whitmire said he and Turner supported each other at their political campaigns, and Turner asked him to speak at his mother’s funeral. They have been friends long before recent politics moved them apart. He will be leading the celebration of the life and achievements of his friend Sylvester Turner just as he honored Congressman Sheila Jackson Lee,” Elegbede said.

Tunde Fasina, owner of the Wazobia African Market, described the mayor as an inspiring mentor, a tireless leader who led with grace and compassion, and a cherished friend. “His guidance and dedication left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed. May God grant his soul eternal rest,” he said.

Turner grew up in a fabulous neighborhood in Houston called Acres Homes. He attended college at the University of Houston and then Harvard Law School. After that, he became a lawyer and started his law firm. In 1988, he got elected to the Texas House and stayed there for almost 30 years. Then, in 2015, he became the mayor of Houston.

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As International Women’s Day quickly approaches in 2025, the world is witnessing a dynamic shift as women take their rightful place at the forefront of industries, economies, and governance. The Queens’ Hub (TQH) — a groundbreaking global platform designed to equip and position frontline women to drive economic transformation, build wealth, and establish lasting legacies. To mark its official launch, TQH will host an exclusive International Women’s Day (IWD) Summit on Saturday, March 8th, from 11 AM until 3 PM at the Royal Sonesta Hotel (2222 West Loop South) in the Galleria area. This event will gather some of the most influential women across business, technology, policy, and enterprise for an experience to inspire, empower, and activate the next generation of female leaders.

A Bold Mission to Shape Economies and Influence Leadership

At its core, The Queens’ Hub is not just another leadership network—it is a strategic force committed to shaping economies by empowering the women who drive them. Through high-impact mentorship, executive coaching, wealth-building initiatives, and exclusive leadership forums, TQH is pioneering a future where women don’t just participate in industries but dominate and transform them.

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Deborah is a visionary entrepreneur and transformation strategist committed to unlocking the full potential of high-impact women. With a background in leadership development, business transformation, and governance, she has cultivated a platform that serves as both a launching pad and a stronghold for women who are ready to operate at the highest levels of power and prestige.

The Premier International Women’s Day Summit

The premier IWD event will convene an elite gathering of women leaders, executives, and change-makers. Hosted by Ivy Okoro, the event will include a variety of keynote presentations and panel discussions. Along with Deborah, presenters for the summit include Temitope Okeseeyin and Lola Oyewumi.

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The Queens’ Hub is more than an initiative—it is a paradigm shift. As industries, governments, and economies navigate transformation, women must not only be present but also lead the charge. For partnership, sponsorship, media inquiries, or to secure a seat at this premier event, please contact Deborah Umoren directly at (346) 332-4175, or email TQH at thequeenshubworld@gmail.com.

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One of the first African-American officers in the U.S. Army Special Forces had to wait almost 60 years before he received the Medal of Honor

Many soldiers showed incredible bravery during the Vietnam War, but Paris Davis stood out. As one of the first Black officers in the U.S. Army Special Forces, he proved to be a strong leader by staying with his men during a brutal attack, refusing to abandon them. Nearly 60 years later, he finally received the Medal of Honor, largely due to the dedication of his fellow Vietnam veterans who fought to get him the recognition he deserved.

Paris Davis’ entry into the US Army

Paris Davis was born on May 6, 1939, in Ohio. His father was a foundry worker, and from a young age, Davis developed a strong interest in both the U.S. military and sports. While studying at Southern University in Louisiana, he followed these passions by earning an ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) scholarship in political science. He also played football for the university and was recognized as an All-American halfback.

Davis joined the U.S. Army in 1962, where his intelligence and athletic ability helped him advance quickly. He became one of the first African-American officers in the Special Forces , a major achievement during a time of racial discrimination.

As a captain in the 5th Special Forces Group, his commander told him that, because of his race, he would have to work twice as hard to earn the respect of his soldiers. Davis made it clear that he expected discipline and respect, warning his men that there would be serious consequences if they addressed him as anything other than “sir.”

Deployment to Vietnam

Paris Davis and his team were sent to Vietnam in early 1965, where they parachuted into a remote farming area in Bình Định province. This region was a key route for Viet Cong guerrillas and North Vietnamese Army (NVA) soldiers. The Green Berets’ mission was to train a group of local volunteers.

Davis proved his bravery for the first time in May 1965, when he rescued an aviation fuel truck driver in Bồng Sơn. The truck, loaded with aviation fuel, lost control, flipped onto its side, and trapped the driver inside. Ignoring his own safety and the driver’s protests, Davis rushed to help. As he carried the man to safety, the truck burst into flames.

Davis was later recognized for his heroism and received the Soldier’s Medal in 1968.

Paris Davis didn’t want to leave any man behind

Paris Davis didn’t wait long to further distinguish himself in Vietnam, risking his life for his men during an enemy attack in June 1965. The day began early for him, the 12 servicemen with the 883rd Regional Forces Company and the accompanying 90 South Vietnamese volunteers. They’d been tasked with conducting a surprise raid on an NVA camp deep in the jungle .

Davis and Master Sgt. Billy Waugh stormed into the enemy commander’s hut and killed him at close range. At the same time, the other members of the group threw grenades and shot their rifles. The majority of the NVA troops were caught unawares and killed in their cots. Some, however, heard the commotion and escaped into the jungle.

Considering the raid a success, Davis and his men started making their way back to camp. That’s when they heard the sound of bugles, signaling an impending ambush by the NVA – and a rather large one, at that. The team was pushed into a rice paddy with no cover as sniper fire rained down on them. Three bullets struck Waugh, while another hit the medic in the head. A mortar blast also knocked out the group’s weapons specialist.

Frequently exposing himself to enemy fire, Davis rallied his unit and directed their own small arms fire throughout what became a 19-hour standoff . He himself suffered severe injuries to his leg and hand, with a grenade blast practically tearing off his trigger finger. Despite his injuries, he continued to evacuate his wounded comrades, even as air support arrived and dropped bombs over the area. Among those he rescued was Waugh.

A colonel watching the engagement from above ordered Davis to seek shelter, but he refused, as it meant leaving behind his men. He frequently shot his M16 rifle with his pinkie finger while sprinting to the injured and dragging them to safety. When relief arrived, he refused medical aid for himself until everyone had been evacuated. It’s widely believed his efforts ensured each member of his team made it out alive.

Recommended for the Medal of Honor

After the engagement, Paris Davis received the Purple Heart and Silver Star. His commander, Maj. Billy J. Cole, was so impressed by Davis’s bravery and commitment to his men that he immediately nominated him for the Medal of Honor . Frustrated by the slow progress of the process, Cole initiated an inquiry, which revealed that the original nomination had no record. Undeterred, Cole re-submitted the nomination, firmly believing Davis was deserving of the honor.

Years went by without any indication of approval for Davis’s Medal of Honor. Disheartened, his teammates advocated for him to receive the recognition, but their efforts were met with silence. Eventually, it was discovered that the second nomination had also been lost, fueling suspicions that Davis was being skipped over due to his race.

Despite these setbacks, Davis continued his service in the US Army, rising to become the commander of the 10th Special Forces Group. After retiring in 1985 with the rank of colonel, he founded The Metro Herald , a Virginian newspaper focused on civil rights and celebrating the achievements of African-American residents.

In 2019, Davis was honored with induction into the Ranger Hall of Fame.

Paris Davis is presented with the Medal of Honor

Some two years later, it was announced that then-Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller had ordered an expedited review of the Green Beret’s lost Medal of Honor nomination. Despite the deadline being March 2021, there was little in the way of updates. That is, until November 2022, when a Pentagon official told Military.com that the nomination had been approved by Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Paris Davis’ nomination was passed to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who approved it and sent it to President Joe Biden’s desk for further approval.

On March 3, 2023, nearly 60 years after Davis’ heroics in Vietnam, he was awarded the Medal of Honor at a ceremony held at the White House. Speaking at the presentation, Biden called the veteran a “true hero” and “everything this medal means […] brave and big-hearted, determined and devoted, selfless and steadfast – America.”

♦ Culled from War History Online

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Texas Guardian News

INTERNATIONAL GUARDIAN is the boldest and brightest issue-oriented international newspaper published in Houston, Texas. Strategically, it strives to promote private enterprise, support responsible government and advocate social justice.

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